One Love…let’s get together and feel alright

The St. Louis Cooks have been away soaking up the rays, eating some awesome jerk food, and listening to some great music. It’s been over eight years since I’ve been to Jamaica. I didn’t realize how much I missed the warm Jamaican people, the awesome jerk food, and the incredible music and dance. It was the kids first visit to the island and they’re already asking to go back. Ya Mon!

Once you go, you know!

We had the pleasure of staying at the Iberostar Rose Hall Suites, thanks to my awesome mother n law for treating 15 family members. This resort was the perfect home for seven nights of fun and relaxation. I travel for both business and pleasure. I must admit this resort is top of my list for a family vacation. It offered non-stop fun and excitement especially for the kids, with beach aerobics, kids games, feeding the fish, and evening shows in the theatre. Every day at 3:00 PM, the awesome star entertainment staff danced the Cupid Shuffle and the Wobble dance, along with all the kids in our family. We didn’t have any shy ones in the bunch! In addition to the hotel activities, some family members went scuba diving for the first time. I can’t believe that my 11-year-old daughter was one of them, but she loved it.

I’m a firm believer in experiencing the culture and checking out an excursion or two. Dunns River Falls is a must see in Jamaica. If you are well and able, take the climb up the falls. It’s a bit challenging, but tons of fun for everyone. We left the older ones behind, but my son who is five years old and my nephew who is six both made it to the top. Of course, we bought the CD to help bring the experience back to life. Amstar Destination Management Company took very good care of us. Margie, our tour guide told us all about the history and culture of Jamaica.

Location is key with a larger group of people especially in Jamaica where transfer time can sometimes take 1-2 hours depending on what part of the island you are visiting. The Iberostar Rose Hall Suites has the perfect location because it’s only 20 minutes from the airport. The resort is set on a beautiful calm beach so it’s ideal for kids and all water activities. The resort also has convenient elevators throughout the property. We also had tons of options for food. They were very accommodating with our family. We were able to set up reservations every night in one of the many al a carte restaurants. My favorite though was the Japanese restaurant where they cooked and chopped right in front of our table. A special shout out to Sabrina, our cook that evening for all the fun and dancing!

When visiting another country, I have found that it’s the people who really make the vacation experience. It holds true for Jamaica as well. The people are so warm, friendly, and laid back.